MDFR Fire Chief

Official Twitter account of the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (#MDFR) Fire Chief Raied "Ray" Jadallah.

[Miami-Dade Fire Rescue @MiamiDadeFire]

This morning, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue joined Florida Chief Financial Officer @GovGoneWild at the #MDFR Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Florida Task Force 1 (FL-TF1) Training Site in Miami for a hurricane preparedness press conference.

Joined by @MDFRChief Ray Jadallah, @MiamiDadeEM Assistant Director Jesse Spearo, @MiamiDade_SO @Sheriff_Rosie and State Representative @OmarBlancoFL, CFO Ingoglia emphasized the importance of preparing before a storm by reviewing insurance coverage, protecting important documents, securing homes and properties, and having a plan in place.

MDFR's USAR team plays a critical role in disaster response and recovery efforts. Specially trained personnel provide search and rescue operations, disaster communications, medical support, damage assessments, and coordination of relief supply distribution following major emergencies and natural disasters.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

As we enter the third operational day of the 172 Fire, @MiamiDadeFire remains on scene alongside @MiamiDadeEM and our public safety partners. We continue monitoring conditions and working to protect nearby communities.

[Miami-Dade Fire Rescue @MiamiDadeFire]

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue continues assisting @FlForestService (FFS) under a unified command structure with the 172 Fire in Southeast Miami-Dade. According to FFS, the fire has affected 300 acres and is 50% contained.

Air Rescue has been supporting firefighting efforts from above, conducting water drops, while crews remain on the ground to protect nearby communities and mitigate potential exposures. At this time, there are no threats to nearby structures.

As weather conditions change throughout the rest of the day, nearby areas may experience smoky conditions due to shifting winds and expected rain, which may cause smoke to lower closer to the ground and impact visibility. Drivers should use caution, remain alert for changing road conditions, and be prepared for possible road closures. Traffic and road updates are available at https://t.co/VkTTWCU3yH

#MDFR reminds our community to take precautions if smoke impacts your area. Those with respiratory conditions, older adults, and children may be especially sensitive to smoke exposure. Stay indoors when possible and set home and vehicle A/C systems to recirculate.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

On behalf of @MiamiDadeFire, we extend our deepest condolences to @BrowardSheriff and the family, friends, and colleagues of FF Lepselter.

MDFR stands with you in solidarity during this difficult time.

[Sheriff Gregory Tony, Ph.D. @bsosherifftony]

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of BSO Firefighter/Paramedic Steven Lepselter, who died April 5, 2026, after a medical emergency on duty. A 19-year veteran, his legacy of service, professionalism and compassion lives on.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

My career in the fire service began as a young cadet, which is why it’s always an honor to welcome the next generation. Congratulations to Cadet Class 2501 on joining the @miamidadefire Cadet Program. We’re proud of your service to our community at such a young age.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Thank you to @repfelrobinson and @OmarBlancoFL for visiting our @MiamiDadeFire firefighters and recognizing their efforts battling the fifth-alarm warehouse fire in Miami Gardens. We appreciate your support.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Congratulations to Fire Chief Digna Abello on being recognized by @MiamiDadeBCC during #WomensHistoryMonth for your historic appointment as the first female Fire Chief of @MiamiBeachFire. It’s an honor to work alongside you to protect & serve our community.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

I was deeply honored to stand alongside the dedicated personnel of @MiamiDadeFire to recognize their extraordinary work. Your actions had a direct meaningful impact and embody our commitment to service. Congratulations to our award recipients.

[Miami-Dade Fire Rescue @MiamiDadeFire]

Today, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (#MDFR) held its annual Medal Day ceremony, recognizing the sworn personnel and professional staff who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

Surrounded by their loved ones, honorees received awards for their courage, commitment, and dedication to serving Miami-Dade County.

#MedalDay2026

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

I am honored to stand alongside leaders from local fire departments to kick off this great event. Teaching fire safety early helps build lifelong habits that extend beyond the classroom and strengthen safety at home and throughout the community.

[Miami-Dade Fire Rescue @MiamiDadeFire]

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (#MDFR) was proud to join @JacksonHealth’s Miami Burn Center and other local fire departments today at the 38th Annual Children’s Fire Safety Festival.

Held in recognition of National Burn Awareness Week, the event provided kindergarten through third-grade students with essential, age-appropriate fire and burn safety education.

The MDFR Community Affairs team engaged participants by teaching how to properly dial 9-1-1 during an emergency and reinforcing basic fire safety information, including the importance of having working smoke alarms.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Leadership is not a title you wear, it is the standard you set and uphold for others to follow.
Great conversation today at #MDFR Station 62 presenting newly promoted Captains D. Suarez, R. Perez , C. Figueredo, with their Captain’s badges. Congratulations!

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

A proud moment recognizing leadership and earned responsibility. It was an honor to present newly promoted Captain Schiller (R30) and Captain Knabb (R8) with their Captain badges and accessories. Congratulations on a well-deserved promotion and continued service to our community.

[Miami-Dade Fire Rescue @MiamiDadeFire]

Join Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (#MDFR) in congratulating Lt. Reginald “Reggie” McKnight Jr. on receiving the 2025 William “Bill” Gustin Instructor of the Year Award at the @FlFireChiefs Florida Fire & EMS Conference.

This honor is presented to an instructor whose leadership, dedication, and impact set a standard for the fire service. It recognizes individuals who consistently invest in the growth of others, strengthen their organization, and exemplify excellence through instruction, mentorship, and service to their department, community, and peers.

A nearly 19-year veteran of the fire service, Lt. McKnight embodies the spirit of this award, having served as an instructor for the past nine years. He had the opportunity to learn from and later teach alongside the award’s namesake, the late MDFR Capt. William “Bill” Gustin, now carrying forward his legacy of training excellence and passion for the profession.

Deeply committed to the development of the next generation of fire service professionals, Lt. McKnight has left a lasting impact on many.

We congratulate Lt. McKnight on this well-deserved recognition.

#AlwaysReadyProudToServe

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

This holiday season, I’m grateful for the privilege of serving Miami-Dade alongside the dedicated men and women of #MDFR. To those on the front lines and those celebrating at home, I wish you a joyful and safe holiday season.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside State Representative @OmarBlancoFL this weekend in supporting our community this holiday season. Proud of our MDFR members who assisted with the Christmas food distribution at Tropical Park. #MDFR service and teamwork in action.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Proud to join our community at today’s #FIFAWorldCup2026 Final Draw. As excitement builds, @MiamiDadeFire stands ready to keep safety paramount for fans from around the world. We’re committed to supporting a memorable and secure World Cup for all.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Today, @miamidadefire honored the service and sacrifice of @MiamiDade_SO Deputy Devin Jaramillo. We stand with our law enforcement partners in this profound loss and hold his loved ones in our hearts. May you find strength in the support of your public safety community.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

I extend my deepest condolences to @Sheriff_Rosie, everyone at the @MiamiDade_SO, and to Deputy Devin Jaramillo’s family. We share in your sorrow and are keeping his family, friends, and colleagues in our thoughts during this difficult time.

[Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz @Sheriff_Rosie]

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Kendall District Deputy Devin Jaramillo of the @MiamiDade_SO Deputy Jaramillo, a proud graduate of Lateral Class #6 (May 2024), was a valued member of our agency. At just 27 years old, he served our community with professionalism, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fellow deputies during this difficult time. Deputy Jaramillo’s legacy of integrity, compassion, and courage will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Proud to join our @MiamiDadeFire team at the Fourth Annual Hometown Heroes Parade & Festival. I was honored to stand with our community in recognizing Lt. Maria Ortiz with the Cesar “Echy” Echaverry Award & celebrating her 30 years of dedicated service.

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Our @MiamiDadeFire family sends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of @MiamiBeachPD Motorman David Cajuso.

His loss is felt across South Florida’s public safety community. We send strength and support to his loved ones and his Miami Beach Police family.

[Miami Beach Police @MiamiBeachPD]

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Miami Beach Police Motorman David Cajuso, who succumbed to his injuries following a traffic crash earlier today.

Officer Cajuso faithfully served our Miami Beach community for ten years with courage and an unwavering commitment to public service.

He is survived by his loving wife, three children, and parents, as well as his MBPD family — who will forever honor his memory and legacy.

Funeral arrangements are forthcoming and will be shared once finalized. Please keep Officer Cajuso’s family and loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time.

End of Watch: 10.28.2025 💙🕊️

[MDFR Fire Chief @MDFRChief]

Honored to have attended the “A Safe Haven for Newborns” Gala this Saturday. Fire Chiefs from across Miami-Dade & Broward County joined Nick Silverio in supporting his mission through A Safe Haven for Newborns, saving lives & providing hope by giving every newborn a safe start.